Russian citizens are set to feel more isolation in the coming days especially from the online community.
Criminalizing what he feels is fake news, Putin signed a new bill last week and blocked Facebook and Twitter.
Now on top, of that Netflix is suspending services in Russia. The streamer has said it’s to reflect the circumstances on the ground.
TikTok has also pulled the content plug. App users within Russia will only be able to see older videos made within the country in a “view-only” mode, but they won’t be able to post, see new videos or livestreams.
Mastercard will also cease to work within Russia.
In a statement, Mastercard said that it’s network will no longer be supporting Russian issued cards. If cards were issued outside of the country, they will not work within Russia.
Meanwhile Visa and American Express are making similar moves. They are working to cease all transactions shortly.
All of this, plus international sanctions have pushed the Russian currency of the Ruble down by more than a third. Other companies are selling their stocks or refusing to send scheduled shipments which is pushing up the rate of inflation.
Meantime, people from around the globe are booking Airbnbs in Ukraine with no plans to check in.
The initiative has gained popularity on social media and aims to help put money directly into the wallets of Ukrainians in need of financial assistance.
In just two days, Airbnb’s chief executive Brian Chesky reports on Twitter more than 61,000 nights were booked with about $2.4 million (Canadian) going to hosts.
In 48 hours, 61,406 nights have been booked in Ukraine. That's $1.9M going to Hosts in need
Such a cool idea from our community. Thank you https://t.co/MEitgKB5Eo
— Brian Chesky (@bchesky) March 4, 2022
The home rental company has waived guest and host fees on all bookings in Ukraine.
Social media has become flooded with people posting their support and messages with hosts on Airbnb.
Support Ukraine- thanks @Airbnb for the platform. Rent in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/vsKxNl3oWE
— Dr. Bridgette Chambers (@bridgchambers) March 5, 2022
Meantime, Airbnb is also working to donate up to 100,000 homes for Ukrainian refugees who were forced to flee amid the Russian invasion.
Airbnb has also suspended all operations in Russia and Belarus.
(With files from Skye Bryden-Blom)
